These 6 Washington Winter Hikes Will Make You Feel Like You're In Switzerland Right Now
Whether it's the slopes inviting you to ski on them, firs dusted with snow or bushels of fragrant of mistletoe, there's something about frosty climes that turns the landscape magical. While we've been chasing waterfalls all summer, it's time to find snow this season. And we've got all the winter hikes in Washington where you can find some right now.
"Seattle snow" was one of the most popular Google search terms of 2019. And while the Emerald City has got to wait a while for ice, some places in Washington — especially around the Snoqualmie Pass — are packed with wintery goodness, making it look like an actual Swiss town!
Here's where you can wade through the pristine powders and get some great insta-worthy shots ASAP.
Mount Catherine
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: Approx. 3.1-miles roundtrip
Address: Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Why You Need To Go: This rewarding trail will give you panoramic views of Washington's snow-capped mountains (including Rainier) and the glorious blue Keechelus Lake.
Gold Creek Pond Trail
Difficulty: Easy
Length: Approx. 2.3-miles roundtrip
Address: Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Why You Need To Go: An easy, dog-friendly hike, this will lead you to an actual frozen lake you can walk around.
Hyak Sno-Park Trails
Difficulty: Moderate
Length: Approx. 15-miles roundtrip
Address: Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Why You Need To Go: Although the trail continues for a long distance, you can pick how far you want to go. Stunning scenery framed with wintery peaks and lakes + beginner-friendly snowshoe trails makes this perfect.
Franklin Falls
Difficulty: Easy
Length: Approx. 2 to 5 miles roundtrip depending on road closures
Address: Snoqualmie Pass, WA
Why You Need To Go: An Evergreen State-favorite, this hike will take you to a frozen waterfall + give you views of a quaint red cabin that you'll want to rent ASAP.
Melakwa Lake
Difficulty: Hard
Length: Approx. 9.7-miles roundtrip
Address: Melakwa Lake, WA
Why You Need To Go: You'll feel like you're one with nature at this secluded alpine lake that freezes over in the winter.
Kendall Katwalk
Difficulty: Hard
Length: Approx. 14-miles roundtrip
Address: Pacific Crest Trail, North Bend, WA
Why You Need To Go: You'll get to walk on the legendary Pacific crest trail and a narrow path blasted out of a steeply sloped granite rock face + get unobstructed views of mountains, old-growth forests.
If your pooch loves the snow just as much as you, here's a list of Washington dog-friendly winter hikes to take Fido on too.
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, avalanches, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.